The Robert A. Martin papers primarily consists of topical files containing correspondence, clippings, notes, and publications associated with various American figures, such as dramatist Arthur Miller and war correspondent Martha Gellhorn. Also, included are 14 sound recordings that include lectures delivered by and about, as well as interviews with, Miller.
Robert Allen Martin was born in Toledo, Ohio on June 25, 1930 to Raymond (Guy) Martin and Orlu (born Lambert) Martin. He served in the United States Navy in 1951-1954 and received his bachelor's degree from the University of Toledo in 1958. Soon after, Martin matriculated to the University of Michigan, where he studied under Kenneth Rowe, met Arthur Miller, and held several teaching positions. Martin received an M.A. and Ph.D. in English (1965). The title of his dissertation was The Major Plays and Critical Thought of Arthur Miller to the Collected Plays.
In 1965, Martin began working as an Assistant Professor of English in the Department of Humanities within the University of Michigan's College of Engineering. He was promoted to Associate Professor in 1969 and attained the rank of Professor in 1975. Martin taught creative writing and served on several committees during his tenure at the university, including the Hopwood Awards Committee. Upon his retirement from the University of Michigan in 1986, the regents of the university named him Professor Emeritus of English. After retiring from the University of Michigan, Martin taught at Michigan State University. He passed away in Ann Arbor, Michigan on May 7, 2008.
Martin's area of expertise focused on American literature and drama, particularly as it related to Arthur Miller, with whom he developed a personal and professional relationship. He also corresponded with several other American literary figures and journalists, including Martha Gellhorn and Maxine Kumin. His publications include The Theater Essays of Arthur Miller (1978), Arthur Miller: New Perspectives (1982), The Writer's Craft: Hopwood Lectures, 1965-81 (1982), and Critical Essays on Tennessee Williams (1997).
